Go wild this autumn in Dumfries & Galloway

As the blustery cold snap of last week looks set to continue, it would seem autumn has well and truly arrived. But if, like me, the chilly temperature has you rushing to crank up the central heating, dig out the hot water bottle and try to figure out ways to stay warmly ensconced indoors until spring arrives, you might want to think again. Venture out into Scotland’s great outdoors at this time of year and you’ll witness some of its most colourful scenery and will have the chance to get up close to all kinds of wildlife.

Bearing this in mind, why not head to Dumfries & Galloway where the region’s inaugural Wild Autumn Festival is now underway running from 12 October until 3 November with over 50 wildlife events, many free and hosted by local wildlife guides? Set in unspoilt countryside, the festival is a fantastic opportunity for families, outdoor enthusiasts or those just after some fresh air to experience the diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty of this part of Scotland. Due to its latitude and the warming effect of the Gulf Stream, Dumfries & Galloway is home to one of the most extensive and varied collections of flora and fauna in the UK. Choose from a fantastic array of events this autumn for the chance to see all kinds of creatures, great and small, including red deer, oystercatchers, bats, badgers, red squirrels, red kites, otters, barnacle geese and many more. Check out these fantastic images of the species and landscapes you can look forward to seeing during the festival.

If you’re stuck for things to do during the October half-term break, the Wild Autumn Festival has a wide range of family-friendly events. Let the kids have a go at building their own bird box or feeder, search for tiny mammals on a Hedgerow Safari, join a badger walk at dusk, go stargazing in the Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park, take part in a pumpkin carving competition, or enjoy plenty of other activities.